DCFS-supervised foster homes and all caregivers who receive the Standard-of Need rate receive a monthly check mailed directly from DCFS. Private agency supervised licensed foster families receive a monthly check from their private agency, which has received the funds from DCFS. Caregivers who receive payments directly from DCFS can sign up for electronic deposit to their bank accounts. Direct deposit information is available at the website for the Illinois Comptroller at www.ioc.state.il.us. Some agencies may also do direct deposit for their foster care payments.

How Monthly Foster Care Payments Work

A foster care payment begins on the day a child is placed in the foster home and ends on the day before the child leaves. Caregivers receive a check for the previous month. 

Example: If the child is placed on October 18th, the foster family will receive payment for October 18-31 (14 days) on or about November 20. In December, the foster family will receive payment for the entire month of November, if the child was in their home for the entire month.

When a child moves into a higher age category, the licensed foster care rate is increased automatically.  Children move into higher categories on their  1st, 5th, 9th and 12th birthdays.

NOTE: Private agencies determine monthly payment times for licensed homes under their supervision, but payments must be made monthly.

If You Do Not Receive Your Monthly Foster Care Check

Licensed Private Agency Caregivers 
Contact your agency. Your agency is responsible for getting your monthly payment to you. Make sure that your agency has your correct address.  

Licensed DCFS Foster Homes 
If you have questions, or believe there is a problem, contact the caseworker or your Foster Parent Support Specialist (FPSS) or the local DCFS office for assistance. Make sure that DCFS has your correct address. For an automated 24hour message about when the last check was sent, or when to expect your next check, call the DCFS Payment Line at 800-525-0499.

Unlicensed Caregivers Receiving the Standard of Need Rate 
Private agency caregivers receiving the Standard-of-Need rate shown on page 2 should call the 24-hour DCFS Payment Line at 800-525-0499 for the voicemail check mailing schedule.  Staff  are available during business hours to assist you with questions or problems. 

Note: If there is a pattern of mishandled financial matters or circumstances meriting investigation and you have tried to work it out with your agency but nothing has changed, contact the Office of the Inspector General at 312-433-3000. 

Who Pays For What? 
Ask your agency for its policy and ask questions. DCFS Policy 359 explains exactly what DCFS pays for in DCFS-supervised foster homes, private agency supervised foster homes, group homes and in residential care. Questions about DCFS policy may be answered through the DCFS Advocacy Office for Children and Families at 800-232-3798.